Adams Withdraws From NYC Mayoral Race, Intensifying Pressure on Sliwa
Adams Withdraws From NYC Mayoral Race, Intensifying Pressure on Sliwa
Mayor Eric Adams has dramatically reshaped the New York City mayoral contest, announcing Sunday his decision to end his reelection campaign. This unexpected move immediately escalates calls for Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa to also step aside, aiming to consolidate opposition votes against frontrunner Zohran Mamdani in favor of independent candidate Andrew Cuomo.
Adams’ withdrawal sets the stage for a potential direct confrontation between former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mamdani, who currently holds a significant lead in polls. A recent Siena University-New York Times survey, however, suggested Mamdani’s lead would shrink considerably in a two-person race, with 48% support compared to Cuomo’s 44% among likely voters.
High-profile figures quickly reacted, urging Sliwa to follow Adams’ lead. Billionaire investor Bill Ackman tweeted, “Thank you [Eric Adams] for your service… [Curtis Sliwa], you should follow Eric’s lead for the good of NYC.” Chien Kwok of PLACE NYC echoed this sentiment, pressing Sliwa to drop out to unite behind Cuomo and prevent Mamdani from potentially “hurt[ing] NYC beyond recognition.”
Despite the growing pressure, Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, remains steadfast. His campaign declared Sunday, “Curtis Sliwa is the only candidate who can defeat Mamdani,” signaling no intention to withdraw. Campaign finance records show Sliwa’s campaign with $3.4 million cash on hand, exceeding Cuomo’s $1.6 million, while Mamdani has already reached the $8 million fundraising cap.
Political analysts largely believe Sliwa is unlikely to concede, pointing to his substantial vote share in the 2021 election and his independent political stance, even from figures like Donald Trump. Pollster Adam Carlson’s data further complicates the consolidation strategy, indicating that 71% of Sliwa’s voters would not transfer their support to Cuomo if Sliwa were to withdraw. The coming weeks, including potential super PAC spending, will be crucial in determining whether voter sentiment shifts following Mayor Adams’ high-profile exit.
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